DOTr rolls out first batch of modern public utility vehicles

TRUCK & BUS NEWS

Department of Transportation begins deployment of modern transport vehicles

by AutoIndustriya.com

July 24, 2018 08:47

On July 20, 2018, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) officially began the deployment of modern public vehicles at the Quirino Grand Stand in Manila. The DOTr led the Pasada Tungo sa Maunlad na Bansa, wherein around 150 modern PUVs were made available for dispatch to operators with franchises validated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“What we are doing today is a testament that we remain true to our promise of making the Filipino lives comfortable. This is a symbol that was promised by President Duterte for the Filipinos, carried out not only by word but by work. This has been the dream of commuters. Now ,we are able to fullfill that dream," said DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade.

The new modern jeepneys replacements conform to the existing environmental and product standards set by the Bureau of Standards. It aims to provide 'safe, comfortable, efficient and environment-friendly public transport to Filipinos.'

It has new side doors instead of the rear doors found on previous jeepneys, coupled with a higher ceiling to allow for standing passengers, allowing for higher carrying capacity. Emergency exits are also standard on these new vehicles coupled with provisions for persons with disabilities (PWD). A Euro-4 compliant engine, speed limiter, dash camera and electronic fare collection round up the modern features.

Sec. Tugade plans to replace all public utility vehicles aged 15 years and older under the PUV Modernization program. He also urged operators and drivers to change and embrace the modernization of PUVs.

Class 1, 2 and 3 jeepneys are currently available for dispatching. That said, expect to see more of these modern jeepneys roaming the streets of the Philippines.